Sometimes the best medicine isn’t in the cupboard – it’s already in your fridge or fruit bowl! Over the years, mums have passed down natural remedies that really do help with everyday aches and niggles. While we’d never say food should replace proper medical advice, these little tricks can make life easier when you or your kids need a gentle boost. Here are 10 everyday foods that heal better than medicines.

Here are ten foods that can help keep the whole family feeling their best:

1. Headaches? Try a Banana

Instead of always reaching for tablets, grab a banana. They’re full of magnesium, which can help relax tight muscles and ease headaches naturally.

Banana tea, a natural sleeping pill and facts on health benefits of the banana

2. Sore Throat? Honey to the Rescue

A spoonful of honey can coat the throat, calm irritation and even help fight bacteria. It’s a soothing trick that works wonders for both kids and adults.

My yummy home-made turmeric ginger tea recipe & its health benefits

3. Toothache? Chew on a Clove

Our grandmothers knew this one! Cloves are nature’s own painkiller. Popping one in your mouth can give temporary relief until you see the dentist.

4. Constipation? An Apple a Day…

The old saying is true – apples are packed with fibre and can gently get things moving again. A healthy fix without reaching for harsh remedies.

Recipe: Easy low sugar Apple Cake

5. Dry Hair? Salmon for Supper

Oily fish like salmon are rich in omega-3 fats that nourish from the inside out. Regularly eating salmon can bring back that shine we all want.

Recipe: Scrambled eggs with smoked salmon

6. Feeling Wiped Out? Oranges Boost Energy

Instead of grabbing another coffee, peel an orange. The vitamin C and natural sugars give you a lift without the dreaded energy crash.

7. Low Blood Sugar? Snack on Dates

Dates are a brilliant natural pick-me-up. They release sugar slowly, so you get steady energy – perfect for lunch boxes or that 3pm slump.

8. Trouble Sleeping? Slice Up Some Kiwi

Studies suggest eating kiwi before bed can actually help you sleep better. It’s a tasty and natural bedtime snack.

9. Brittle Hair? Bell Peppers for Strength

Full of vitamin C, bell peppers help your body absorb iron and make collagen – both great for healthy, shiny hair.

Halloween recipe: Scary Stuffed Jack-o-Lantern Peppers

10. Bloated? A Pot of Yoghurt Helps

The probiotics in yoghurt keep tummies happy by balancing good bacteria in the gut. Ideal after a big meal or when kids complain of feeling “puffy”.

One last thing, mums:

These foods are little everyday helpers – not miracle cures. They’re perfect for supporting family health, but if symptoms are persistent or worrying, always check in with your GP.